The Exurban Tier generally lies in the central portion of the County just west of the Urban/Suburban Tier. This Tier includes rural subdivisions with 1.25 to 2.5 acre homesteads, many of which support home-based agriculture and equestrian uses. Historically remote, these areas attracted those desiring a rural lifestyle. However, rapid growth and development pressures have necessitated a better mix of uses and limited urban services. The primary strategy of this Tier is to plan for growth impacts while protecting and maintaining the area's semi-rural lifestyle.

To accomplish this, the Tier System allows agricultural and equestrian uses, as well as maintains and improves rural development regulations. New lots must be a minimum of 2.5 acres and non-residential uses should only be of a size and type to serve the immediate community. To enhance the sense of community, the Tier System promotes co-location of commercial and civic uses, and recognizes the directives of locally-generated neighborhood plans.

Objectives and Policies

Exurban Tier (Obj. 13., page 24)

Limited Urban Service Area (Obj. 3.3, page 73)

Rural Service Area (Obj. 3.4, page 73)

Comprehensive Plan

Rural Tier / Back / Tier Summary